Objectives: To learn how to protect the skin and to reduce the risk of photoaging and skin cancer
To learn differences between solar filters and formulations
To learn how to choose a sunscreen
To learn how to avoid common mistakes in the use of sunscreens by customers
Introduction: The incidence of skin tumors is increasing in all western countries. This phenomenon can be partly but not exclusively due to skin aging and a cultural and social behaviour leading to more sun exposures. However paradoxically this increase of incidence follows the increase of the sales of sunscreens pointing out that the wrong use of sunscreens may be more deleterious for the health than no use. In addition, some sunscreens have a poor quality and customers can not be readily identify good and bad suncreens.
Materials / method: We will clarify differences of the molecular structures of sunscreens, their mode of action, and efficacy in in vitro and in vivo conditions
We will explain the importance of the notions of SPF, UVA-PF, water resistance, stability and formulation and the common mistakes that customers and doctors do when they deal with their values and indexes.
Results: Practical suggestions will be provided.
Conclusion: A sunscreen can save the skin but, like all drugs, only if it is used properly. A bad use or bad products can be dangerous because they provide for a wrong feeling of being protected and they encourage to stay longer under the sun
Disclosures
Did you receive any funding to support your research for this TOPIC?
No
Were you provided with any honoraria, payment or other compensation for your work on this study?
No
Do you have any financial relationship with any entity which may closely compete with the medications, materials or instruments covered by your study?
No
Do you own or have you applied for any patents in conjunction with the instruments, medications or materials discussed in your study?
No
This work was not supported by any direct or non direct funding. It is under the author's own responsability